What Exactly Are Environmental Stressors and How Do They Affect Your Skin?
What Environmental Aggressors Are Really Doing to Your Skin
When we think about what harms our skin from the outside world, sun exposure is usually top of mind — and for good reason. UV rays are one of the most powerful environmental aggressors, impacting everything from skin tone to collagen levels. That’s why daily SPF is essential. But here’s what most people don’t realize: sunscreen only blocks about 55% of the free radicals caused by UV exposure.
That means sun protection alone isn’t enough to fully defend your skin.
Other environmental aggressors — like air pollution, car exhaust, industrial fumes, cigarette smoke, and even ground-level ozone — are constantly surrounding us. As air quality worsens, the stress on your skin increases. Since your skin is the body’s first line of defense, it takes the hit — and over time, the damage adds up.
So What’s the Real Threat?
Free radicals.
These unstable molecules are triggered by UV rays, pollution, and ozone — and they damage skin by attacking healthy cells, "stealing" electrons, and disrupting their structure. Over time, this leads to:
Collagen breakdown
Loss of firmness and elasticity
Fine lines and wrinkles
Dark spots and uneven tone
Oxidized oils that can clog pores and cause breakouts
And here’s the kicker: this damage compounds over time. Long-term exposure = long-term consequences.
That’s why at Drea Skincare, we believe in proactive defense. Our Vitamin C + E Ferulic Acid Serum is designed to go beyond sunscreen — neutralizing free radicals, supporting collagen, and helping your skin stay healthy, resilient, and glowing in any environment.